Help Re-Elect a Mayor who respects you

Anacigoptanpi Kte

Thanks to your support, we now have a Mayor who respectfully listens to the concerns of Native people. Changing the status quo isn’t easy, and it’s an uphill climb at times. I have been and continue to be willing to undertake challenges.

As Mayor, I have focused on addressing issues brought to me by our Native residents, and have focused on building positive relationships with the Tribal Governments in our region. In addition, I have made an effort to appoint more Native people to Rapid City’s boards, commissions and committees. We now have a Human Relations Commission that is more than just a think tank with nice people on it. They can actually do something about discrimination cases when they happen. Learn more about the revitalized Human Relations Commission.

I have a positive vision and am willing to work with Native people on concerns they have identified.

One of our first goals was to encourage more involvement in City Government by addressing the concerns with the redistricting and voting process in North Rapid City.

For example, there are two separate, but related, issues we addressed immediately after I was elected Mayor in 2011 —First, we finally have a voting precinct at Lakota Homes. It was operational for the November 2012 Elections, and this year will be the 2nd ever Mayor’s race where there is a voting place at Lakota Homes (it’s in the Oyate Center).

Secondly, in the fall of 2011 we addressed the issue of the unfair redistricting that occurred after the 2000 census, when an entire North Rapid City neighborhood was moved into a West Rapid City voting district.

The 2011 Mayoral race was pivotal because I had the ability to help ensure fair drawing of the ward and precinct lines in Rapid City — an impact that will last for 10 years, and hopefully longer.

When I inquired about the redistricting process as a councilman back in 2004, the City Finance office sent a letter outlining the process – there was no reference to “community of interest” or contiguity in their process. It proves City Hall once disregarded basic principles of redistricting.

Politicians defend the status quo. Leaders help create the future. As your Mayor, I have proven my commitment to listening to concerns, and addressing the concerns when I can. I don’t believe in pandering or making promises I can’t keep.

Pilamiyapelo! Ake omakiyapo

THANK YOU! I appreciate your support and haven’t forgotten your support in the past. I ask for your support again.